ABOUT
FRIENDS OF RIDGWAY STATE PARK
Founded in 1996 to support, promote and preserve Ridgway State Park for future generations.
MISSION
The Friends of Ridgway State Park is a volunteer organization that supports Ridgway State Park in Colorado. The mission statement of this organization is as follows:
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“The Friends of Ridgway State Park (FRSP) is strongly committed to advancing community involvement with proper stewardship of our natural resources. Through volunteer endeavors, FRSP assists Park personnel with environmental education, fund raising for capital improvement projects and equipment purchases, building community associations, hosting visiting community groups, and general maintenance of Park properties."
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As a non-profit 501-C-3 organization, the FRSP through its fund raising allows it to partner in Park projects that need an extra boost, either financially or by using the volunteers to help with on-site projects. This citizen support group fortifies the customer service beyond what can be offered through the Park staff.
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The major fund-raising comes from the sale of fire wood and ice to Park visitors. In addition, funds are acquired from donations and memberships.
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Because of its non-profit status, the Friends group can contribute to the Park for projects or activities that are beyond the reach of State funding alone, but which enhances the visitor experience.
HISTORY
The Friends of Ridgway State Park got its start in 1996 through some of the Park’s volunteers who served as resident campground hosts. Don Goerlitz, a retired Indiana school principal, and his wife got a feel for the operations, maintenance and customer service needs they experienced. Goerlitz shared the information with Jeff Riddle, who was then Park manager at Ridgway. Together they decided to form a citizen’s support group. The group was formalized with articles of incorporation and bylaws as the Friends of Ridgway State Park, Inc.
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In 2000, the now successful Friends of Ridgway State Park, Inc. became a 501-C-3 by the Federal Government.
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Today the Friends of Ridgway State Park is an active and passionate group still contributing to the future of Ridgway State Park.
